Tips

There’s something uniquely humbling about opening your Austin Energy bill in the summer. You brace yourself. You whisper a tiny prayer. You promise the universe you’ll stop running the dryer at 3 p.m. And then… boom. The number hits you like a hot gust of 105° air.

And it’s not just homeowners feeling it — apartment families get hit hard too, especially in older buildings with leaky windows, tired AC units, and insulation that feels more symbolic than functional. Add Austin’s tiered water pricing and the relentless Texas sun, and it’s no wonder families are swapping tips in every Facebook group.

But here’s the good news: there are things you can do at home — small, doable things — that genuinely help. Not the “live in the dark” kind of advice. Real, practical, Texas‑tested stuff that makes life a little easier.

Welcome to the 2026 Garden, Backyard & Patio Product Guide—your fresh start for outdoor living this year. Whether you’re tending a thriving garden, upgrading your patio hangout, or simply dreaming of a backyard that feels a little more “you,” this guide brings together the most inspiring finds of the season.

We’ve curated a mix of innovative, practical, and just‑plain‑fun products designed to make your outdoor spaces more beautiful, functional, and enjoyable. From everyday essentials to clever upgrades you didn’t know you needed, consider this your shortcut to a backyard that works hard, plays hard, and feels like home.

School’s in full swing, the kids’ extracurriculars are in overdrive, the house still needs to function like a well-oiled machine (or at least not completely fall apart), and, oh yeah—there’s work, errands, and the endless to-do list that never seems to shrink. Sound familiar?

With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, let’s talk about something you really deserve: a little self-care. Whether you’re dropping hints to your significant other or treating yourself (because, let’s be real, you’ve earned it), these handpicked self-care products are here to help you relax, recharge, and reclaim some much-needed “me time.” Because taking care of you isn’t selfish—it’s
essential.

It's that festive time of year once again! The shimmering lights, the aroma of freshly baked cookies, and the excitement of Santa's imminent arrival – the holiday season is a wondrous time for children! As parents and grandparents, witnessing the sparkle of wonder and joy in our little ones' eyes is one of the greatest pleasures.

Here's how to keep Santa's magic alive as our children grow older. Read on.

Are you new to the area? Is your child starting school? Is your child struggling to make friends?

It is hard for parents to watch their child having trouble making friends in the classroom, on the playground, in the neighborhood, or any other place children their age mix and mingle.

Parents feel their children’s feelings and want them to be happy. However, trying to solve their children’s problems for them is ultimately not a solution. Instead, parents may guide their children in the right direction and get involved by talking with their child's teacher, read books about friendship, model behavior, try role play, or give them tools that may help them find their way and build relationships and friendships on their own.

Here is a one tool that will help your child break the ice at and outside of school.

Keeping your children safe is every parent's number one goal. According to the Centers For Disease Control, every year there are 200,000 playground-related injuries for children under the age of 14. In order to prevent these accidents, it's important to be aware of some safety measures that can be taken.

Here are 4 things you can do to prevent injuries on the playground.

It's only April and temperatures are already in the upper 90's! Hydration is so important for your children’s health and development. Dehydration can affect your child’s ability to focus and perform, both physically and mentally. Here are some tips for keeping your kids hydrated.

Read on for details and enter for a chance to win one of two fun reusable water bottles.

‘Tis the season – the season of Consignment Sales! 

From March to May as well as from September to November you have the opportunity to consign or shop at several consignment sales in and around Austin, including...

Read on for our list of consignment sales events in the 512.

It took about 10 years until Cedar allergies finally got me. Fortunately, so far my symptoms have been rather mild. I occasionally experience sinus pressure, itchy eyes, and ear aches. 

Here are some tips and treatment suggestions to ease the misery of winter cedar allergies.

Back in March, we couldn’t really prepare for remote learning, since nobody knew what to expect and what to prepare for. This time around it is different. I know exactly how to get ready and what to stock up on. Here’s my Back to Virtual-School List:

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